Our Money Story – Remember: Perspectives FUMCSD Pastors Podcast (S3E7) (Audio)

The female pastors of First United Methodist Church of San Diego are kicking off a new conversation series: “Our Money Story.” Money is at the root of so many conflicts, so these talks are sure to be interesting! First up, Rev. Hannah and Rev. Brittany look back at Exodus 16:1-8 with a conversation titled “Remember.”

If you listened to our podcast last year, you may recall we had a similar series, focusing on personal and family money stories. But this year, we’re focused on the money story of the institutional church. With this theme of remembrance, the women clergy encourage us to look back at the past money stories of the church to understand the challenges and victories we may face today and in the future.

Some themes and ideas they uncover include:

• The fear of not having enough, leading to scarcity mindset and hoarding.
• The psychological theory Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and how it applies to the ancient Israelites.
• How our past experiences guide current decisions, even when our financial situation is different.
• The need to pool resources as a church to ensure everyone’s needs are met.

Ultimately, they ask: If our resources come from God, who should authority of it over God? Why do we control resources and gatekeep what others can access?

It’s a lot to consider, so we encourage you to engage in conversations with others as you dig deep to uncover your thoughts about money and the church. You can do so through our in-person Convergence group or joining our online community at patreon.com/fumcsd.

Here are the discussion questions for this episode:

1. What does this passage say about God's care for the vulnerable?
2. Where in your life are you being asked to trust in "daily bread" rather than long-term certainty?
3. What does “enough” look like for you?
4. How do you experience God’s provision: spiritually, emotionally, or materially in the wilderness of your life?

Our Patreon community is open to all – no matter where you align in your spiritual beliefs. It’s free to join and connect over the weekly episode questions. There is also an optional paid membership that unlocks additional content. Check it out at https://www.patreon.com/fumcsd!